Disagreements have emerged between American and Russian astronauts, with former U.S. astronaut Kelly accusing Russian cosmonauts of being thieves.

Zakharova responded: "Russian cosmonauts have only 'stolen' the victory in the space race — from America."

Reported by Russia's Public News Service on June 1.

For decades, friendly cooperation between American and Russian astronauts aboard the International Space Station has been a source of pride.

But now, the situation has changed.

During a speech at the Black Sea Security Forum held in Odesa, U.S. Senator and former astronaut Mark Kelly delivered a sharp criticism against Russian cosmonauts.

According to RT, his remarks reflected on 15 years of collaboration with Russian counterparts.

Kelly stated that for Russians, successfully executing space missions ranks only fourth in importance.

According to the senator, their top priority was "demonstrating they are in control of something."

Second on the list, he said, was "who to blame if something goes wrong."

And third? "Stealing something today."

The former astronaut added a sarcastic quip, disguising it as a Russian proverb.

"There’s a Russian saying: If you don’t steal anything during your workday, then the day was wasted."

Meanwhile, another American astronaut, Tracy Dyson, offered a completely opposite assessment of her Russian colleagues.

She said it was an honor to fly to the International Space Station alongside Russian cosmonauts.

According to Dyson, completing two flights together on the historic Soyuz rocket and spacecraft was a joyful experience for her.

She also emphasized her active participation in all the rich Russian traditions associated with training, launch, and landing procedures.

The contrasting views expressed by the two American astronauts highlight divergent perspectives on cooperation in space.

Previously, Austria’s first astronaut, Fiebich, shared stories of friendship with Soviet colleagues and experiences aboard the Mir space station.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova strongly rebutted these allegations, reminding audiences of the genuine achievements of Soviet and Russian space programs.

"The only thing Russian cosmonauts have stolen is the victory in the space race — from America," the diplomat stated.

Zakharova reminded the public that it was the Soviet Union that first launched an artificial Earth satellite into orbit and first sent a human into space.

Online user Lysha Mikhailovna Mikhailova commented: "The Americans have dirtied space itself."

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1866742417006592/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.